We Are Creative and HEY Creative Join Forces to Boost Support for Freelance Creatives in Hull

photo: Will Kirk @nighthawkstudio

Hull’s freelance creative community just got a major boost. WAC We Are Creative, an artist-led not-for-profit, has secured new support from HEY Creative to develop a series of events, consultations, and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening Hull and East Yorkshire’s independent creative sector.

Freelancers—whether artists, writers, performers, designers, or producers—make up a significant portion of Hull’s creative workforce. Nationally, freelancers represent around 50% of the arts and culture sector, and Hull is no exception. Despite this, many creatives work in isolation, navigating an unpredictable industry without structured support. WAC was founded in 2020 in direct response to these challenges, and today it boasts over 180 members—all of whom can join for free.

This new initiative, made possible by HEY Creative, will focus on understanding what freelance creatives in the region need, offering professional development opportunities, and strengthening links between freelancers, arts organisations, and funders. WAC Steering Group member Rupert Creed explains:

"This grant will help WAC play a more impactful role in growing the arts in our region. It provides a platform and voice for the many freelance creatives across Hull and East Yorkshire.”

The support from HEY Creative—a cross-sector partnership dedicated to growing Hull’s arts and cultural scene—highlights the importance of a thriving freelance sector. HEY Creative’s Chief Officer, Max May, says:

"Freelancers are vital to our sector, representing up to 50% of the workforce. HEY Creative is committed to advocating for Hull and East Yorkshire’s incredible creative community. Ensuring we have a strong and coordinated voice around freelance support and development needs is key to how we listen and respond.”

What’s Next?

WAC is launching a freelancer consultation survey to gather insights into the challenges and ambitions of independent creatives in Hull. This will be unveiled at their first networking event of 2025—‘We Want to Know You’—taking place on Wednesday, March 12th at 6:30 pm at the Edge Hub in Hull. The event will also feature a session with Hull-based organisation Back to Ours, which will share insights on how it commissions artists and creative projects.

The event is free and open to all freelance creatives. You can sign up here.

Why This Matters

Hull’s creative scene has long been powered by its independents—those pushing boundaries, telling new stories, and shaping the city’s cultural identity. Yet, without access to the same resources and networks as larger organisations, freelancers often face barriers to sustainability and growth.

At Browse Magazine, we’re all about amplifying the voices of Hull’s creative community, and initiatives like this are exactly what’s needed to ensure independent artists and freelancers get the recognition and support they deserve.

WAC membership is free and open to both aspiring and established creatives. To join, email wearecreativehey@gmail.com.

For more on HEY Creative and its work supporting the region’s arts, visit www.hey-creative.co.uk.